15 - Dudley’s Queen of Culture

Move over Liverpool, Dudley is fighting back in the culture stakes and has crowned its own Queen of Culture for 2008.

 

Belly dancing Pat Wakelam, a 59 year old from Quarry Bank in the heart of the Black Country, has been chosen by Dudley Council for the regal role.

 

She was crowned today (15 January) in the Mayor’s Parlour at Dudley Council House.

 

Pat, who besides belly dancing also works for Age Concern and is a complimentary therapist, will promote the borough’s rich cultural assets.  And she’ll be kept busy as 2008 already promises to be an exciting year for cultural activity.  As well as the National Year of Reading, the International Glass Festival returns to Stourbridge Glass Quarter and there’s a bumper programme of events and activities at museums, parks, halls and nature reserves.

 

 

“Pat has been appointed following a survey that asked people about their cultural and leisure activities.  Her zest for life, her ability to enthuse about everything Dudley related makes her ideal for her role.  Her belly dancing expertise is definitely a bonus!”

 

“I’m incredibly proud to become the Queen of Culture.  I’m looking forward to the year ahead and showing people locally and nationally that there’s so much in Dudley borough that can enrich people’s lives.”

 

The 2007 ‘what’s your culture?’ survey showed that the top three most enjoyed activities were walking in the borough’s country parks, visiting  libraries and reading and sport and fitness.

 

Listening to live music, dance and drama, followed by enjoying food from other cultures came fourth and fifth respectively.